Part of the reason lung cancer remains the leading cancer killer in America is that most people with early forms of the disease have no symptoms. Only about 15 percent of lung cancers are found in the early stages, when the disease is easier to treat. The majority of lung cancer patients are diagnosed after the disease had progressed, when detectable symptoms are present.
Symptoms
Like any disease, lung cancer affects each patient differently. Typically, however, symptoms include cough that doesn't go away or gets worse over time, dull, persistent chest pain made worse by deep breathing, chronic hoarseness, bloody or rust-colored spit or phlegm, wheezing or shortness of breath during normal activities, unexplained fever, and recurring respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia.
Causes
Smoking is the prime cause of lung cancer. Health experts blame smoking on as many as 90 percent of lung deaths. And the longer a person smokes, the greater the risk. This risk carries over to non-smokers who regularly breath in second-hand smoke. Other leading risk factors include age, long-term inhalation of radon or asbestos, and lung scarring from certain types of pneumonia.
Diagnosis
Often, the disease is detected when a chest X-ray is performed for suspected pneumonia or another condition. When lung cancer is suspected, however, specific imaging and diagnostic exams are performed to examine the lungs and chest, and to determine whether the cancer has spread. These tests may include a CT scan, sputum sample, biospy, bronchoscopy, bone scan or PET scan.
Prevention
Not smoking is the best way to reduce lung cancer risk. Also, avoid second-hand smoke---both in public places and in your home. Also, check your home for radon and asbestos to avoid possible exposure. Most town health departments offer referrals, advice and instruction on do this.
Added Insight
Smokers who've been diagnosed with lung cancer are often resistant to the idea of quitting, thinking "Why should I give up smoking now?" But researchers have a good answer: Quitting smoking will help will help a lung cancer patient's body better cope with, and respond to, treatments. Improved circulation and lower blood pressure are also among the immediate benefits.
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